Cosmic Fudge Brownies

There’s something irresistible about a rich, fudgy brownie topped with a silky layer of chocolate ganache — and Cosmic Fudge Brownies deliver exactly that. Imagine a decadent base, baked until just set for the ultimate gooey bite, then blanketed with glossy ganache and sprinkled with a galaxy of chocolate pieces. Every slice feels like a little square of chocolate heaven.

Brownies have been beloved since the early 1900s, but the magic of combining them with ganache is pure modern indulgence. While many boxed versions exist, making them from scratch elevates both the flavor and the experience. With real butter, quality cocoa, and a touch of espresso to deepen the chocolate notes, these brownies are anything but ordinary.

Whether you’re sharing them at a gathering or savoring them with a glass of milk in the quiet of your kitchen, Cosmic Fudge Brownies are pure joy in every bite. Plus, they store beautifully in the fridge, making them the perfect make-ahead dessert for any chocolate lover.

Recipe Yield: 16 brownies

INGREDIENTS

1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
4 large eggs, room temp
1 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
1 cup light brown sugar, packed
1 tbsp pure vanilla extract
1 tsp espresso powder (optional, enhances chocolate flavor)
½ tsp baking powder
½ tsp fine sea salt
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

For the Ganache
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
½ cup heavy cream
1 tbsp unsalted butter, room temp

For the Chocolate Garnish
⅓ cup mini chocolate chips or rainbow candy-coated chocolate pieces

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Prep and preheat:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch pan with parchment, leaving an overhang for easy removal.

2. Make the brownie batter:
In a large bowl, whisk melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until glossy. Add eggs one at a time, whisking after each, then stir in vanilla.

3. Combine dry ingredients:
In a separate bowl, sift flour, cocoa powder, espresso powder, baking powder, and salt. Gradually fold into the wet mixture until just combined. Stir in chocolate chips.

4. Bake to perfection:
Spread batter evenly in the prepared pan. Bake 28–32 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs. Cool completely in the pan.

5. Prepare ganache:
In a heatproof bowl, add chocolate chips. Heat cream in a small saucepan until just simmering, then pour over chocolate. Let sit 2 minutes, then whisk until smooth. Stir in butter for shine.

6. Assemble and chill:
Spread ganache evenly over cooled brownies. Sprinkle with mini chocolate chips or candy-coated pieces. Chill in the refrigerator for 1 hour for a clean slice.

7. Slice and serve:
Lift brownies out using parchment overhang. Cut into squares or rectangles with a sharp knife. Serve slightly chilled for the classic texture.

Helpful Tips to Perfect This Recipe

• Don’t Overbake: For a fudgy center, pull brownies when a toothpick shows moist crumbs, not a clean stick.
• Ganache Shine: Adding butter to ganache gives it that bakery-worthy glossy finish.
• Clean Slices: Use a warm knife (dip in hot water, wipe dry) between cuts for picture-perfect edges.